A DARWEN councillor has launched a one-man crusade against dog dirt.

Liberal Democrat Roy Davies has become so annoyed at the mess being left on pavements, in playgrounds and near green spaces in the Sudell ward, that he has bought thousands of bags to give out free to pet owners.

He has made posters to go on display in six corner shops and newsagents where the bags are available.

Coun Davies said: “One of the biggest problems we have is dog fouling at the front of houses because a lot of the backs are now gated off.

"They’re all over like landmines.

“You can get free dog dirt bags from Sudellside Community Centre, but that’s not always open, whereas corner shops are more likely to be.

“I’m hoping that if there’s a lot more availability, it will be a great encouragement.

"I’ve paid for the bags myself – a box of 125 is £1, so it’s no big deal.

“It’s a pilot scheme, but I hope to expand it across Darwen with the help of other councillors, if it’s successful.

"If it’s not, then I will get more aggressive and will publish the details of the dog warden so people can report those who continue to leave dog dirt on the floor.

“It’s very important that we don’t have children playing and ending up with disease.

"People need to take heed of what I’m saying.”

Dog dirt can cause toxiocariasis, a worm infection that in extreme cases can cause blindness.

It most commonly affects children between 18 months and five years who play and put their fingers in their mouths.

Not cleaning up after your dog is an offence. Offenders face a £75 fixed penalty notice; failure to pay can result in prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Participating shops in the scheme are Sandon Street, Anyon Street, Chapels, the Sudellside Store, Olive Lane Store, and Olive Lane, near the Prince of Wales pub.